Published in 1966, Polish author Jerzy Peterkiewicz’s (1916-2007) novel Inner Circle is written in three parts; one set in the mythical past, one set on the Circle Line of the London Underground, and one in a dystopian future. Each part is separated into 3 chapters; Surface, Underground and Sky, with each part reflecting the others, setting up a complex commentary on the human condition.

Souza produced 27 illustrations for the book and also designed the cover image. This work is published in the Book Two, Sky, in which the author writes about Adam, Eve and the mysterious ‘Treemen’ As well as the general release of the book, there was a limited edition of 100, leather bound copies, each signed by the Author and Artist, and containing an original print.

In October 1966 there was an exhibition of Souza’s works for Inner Circle, held at the Tama Gallery in London’s Pimlico. This work was exhibited in that show and reproduced on the cover of the catalogue. The line drawing of the two figures is surrounded by collage of trees and was executed in 1965, around the time Souza was working on his ‘Black on black’ paintings, and a collaborative series of paintings called variously his ‘Kalam Paintings’ and ‘Ghandara Gouaches’, with Indian miniaturist Mohan Sharma.